Falcons Request Interview with LSU Co-Offensive Coordinator Cortez Hankton
The Atlanta Falcons found their new coach in now-former Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, who, despite not being formally introduced yet, has quickly turned his attention toward building his coaching staff.
While early rumors suggest Morris could bring Rams quarterback coach and passing game coordinator Zac Robinson with him as his play-caller, he will still hold interviews with other candidates.
The first could be with current LSU receivers coach and co-offensive coordinator Cortez Hankton, who, according to a report from NFL.com's Ian Rapoport, has already received a request from the Falcons.
Jan 1, 2024; Tampa, FL, USA; LSU Tigers wide receivers coach Cortez Hankton, tight end Ka'Morreun Pimpton (88), and wide receiver Aaron Anderson (1) run onto the field before the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Raymond James Stadium.
Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
Hankton has spent the last two seasons with the Tigers as their receiver coach, following a four-year stint with the Georgia Bulldogs, in which he's developed a reputation as a recruiter and a talent developer.
In Athens, Hankton coached former second-round pick and current Pittsburgh Steelers receiver George Pickens. Although relatively short, his time in Baton Rouge has also seen him coach two more potential high-draft picks, Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr, who have declared for the upcoming NFL Draft.
While their vastly different coaching resumes may suggest that Morris and Hankton have no prior connection, it was during the latter's playing career that they spent time together. Back in 2008, Hankton spent one season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where, at the time, Morris was their defensive backs coach.
His interview with the Falcons will mark the second straight offseason in which he has sat down with an NFL franchise for a coaching vacancy after interviewing the Rams a year ago.
